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Trevor Namenda Correspondent

In a globalised world, where nations are interconnected by intricate webs of trade, politics, and culture, sanctions on a country can reverberate beyond its borders.

Zimbabwe, once the breadbasket of Africa and an epitome of agricultural productivity, has felt the profound impact of these sanctions.

In the realm of international relations, sanctions on Zimbabwe were imposed by Western regimes to effect regime change.

However, in spite of this, Zimbabwe did not crumple, but strengthened its resilience.

While the impact of these sanctions can be considerable, the story of Zimbabwe stands out as a testament to resilient, adaptability, and the indomitable spirit of its people to withstand.

In the face of these challenges, Zimbabwe leveraged on its potential to forge a new path, tapping into its rich resources, resilient spirit, and inherent strengths to usher in a new era of prosperity.

This has been endowed in President Mnangagwa’s “Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo mantra”.

The first step in repositioning Zimbabwe on the global stage was rekindling its agricultural prowess. The country’s fertile lands, favourable climate, and vast experience in crops like tobacco, maize, and cotton, place it in a unique position to reclaim its title as Africa’s food basket.

From the 2021, 2022 through to 2023 farming seasons, the country recorded bumper harvest. Leveraging modern agricultural techniques, investing in research and development, and incentivising young entrepreneurs to venture into agri-business can revitalise this sector.

This not only ensured food security, but also becomes a significant export revenue generator.

However, agriculture is just one piece of the puzzle. Zimbabwe is endowed with a wealth of mineral resources, including gold, diamonds, and platinum.

To make the most of this, Zimbabwe fostered massive realisation of its Vision 2030 though capacitating the mining sector.

President Mnangagwa pegged the US$12 billion revenue target for the sector by 2025.

Significant investment strides are being realised in the mining sector. An increasing number of investors have been charmed by Zimbabwe’s potential in driving forward the mining industry forward.

Prioritising sustainable mining practices, ensuring community participation, and establishing clear regulatory frameworks attracted both local and international investors, bringing in much-needed foreign exchange and creating thousands of jobs.

Women and youth have taken a significant role in driving forward the mining sector. They have taken an active role in exploring the country’s vast mineral resources to generate employment and improve foreign currency generation.

Tourism, another sector with immense potential, awaits rejuvenation.

From the majestic Victoria Falls to the vast Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe boasts attractions that can lure tourists from around the globe.

The recently held Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo, attracted a total of 356 exhibitors as compared to 250 recorded in 2022. The 2023 event also attracted 386 international buyers as compared to 83 recorded in 2022.

The 2023 exhibition also attracted new exhibitors and buyers notably from Spain, Germany, US and Malaysia. This is a testament of growing potential of Zimbabwe’s tourism industry despite the hurdles of economic sanctions.

Zimbabwe has leveraged on strong South to South cooperation to boost its tourism and linking with leading tourism giants such as South Africa and Tanzania.

Government streamlined visa processes, aggressively marketing its tourist spots under the #ZimBho, and ensuring the safety and comfort of visitors exponentially increased its tourism revenues.

Education and technology which serve as catalysts in this transformative journey remained a key priority for Government. Beyond economics and politics, the secret story behind Zimbabwe’s success despite sanctions was its strength in transforming education system.

Government came up with the sound 5.0 Education policy which harnessed on research and technology.

Although the development has a long-term benefit, but in short term the policy marketed Zimbabwe globally and attracted more investments in research and technology.

Zimbabwe has always prided itself on its literacy rate and quality of education. By integrating technology into education, encouraging start-ups, and setting up tech hubs, Zimbabwe can position itself as a leader in tech innovation in the region.

The rise of the digital economy offers a way to bypass some of the traditional barriers posed by sanctions.

Faced with diversity, Zimbabweans have showcased an exceptional flair for creativity, innovation and community-building. Local initiatives, community-driven projects and home-grown solutions are thriving a picture of educational hope and determination.

Further, building regional alliances offered a buffer against the effects of sanctions. Zimbabwe took upon itself to embrace friendship to all and enemy to none maxim.

The dictum has strengthened its diplomatic relations not only in SADC, but across the globe including some Western regimes which finally saw the light.

Strengthening ties with the SADC member states and enhancing trade agreements opened new markets and opportunities for the country. Regional integration also facilitated infrastructural projects, energy cooperation, and joint ventures, minimising the impact of external pressures.

Lastly, it’s imperative for Zimbabwe to maintain a continuous dialogue with the international community.

Engaging in diplomatic channels, showcasing reforms, and highlighting its commitment to good governance can gradually change perceptions and foster a more supportive environment for its growth aspirations.

Zimbabwe’s journey in the face of sanctions is not only about the nation’s resilience, but about rewriting a narrative.

While sanctions may have intended to cripple, they have inadvertently given Zimbabwe a chance to re-think, restructure and rise. The nation stands as a beacon, demonstrating that with the right strategies, support and spirit, any challenge can be turned into an opportunity.

Masters of sanctions are not willing to remove them for fear that Zimbabwe will one day rise to be A world economic giant.